Friday, May 28, 2010

San Juan Bautista Mission

Is there a place that you go when you need to replenish your spirit? For many years I have gone to the small town of San Juan Bautista to visit the 200-year old mission, and that's where I found myself earlier this week.

It is a peaceful place with a large rose garden dotted with cactus. While it's odd to see roses and cactus growing beside each other, it's also quite beautiful.

The mission might look familiar to you. It was featured in the Alfred Hitchcock film Vertigo. Another interesting tidbit is that it is situated on top of the San Andreas Fault and has suffered damage from earthquakes periodically. There are signs everywhere warning visitors that it is not earthquake safe.

As I walked the mission grounds and around the small historic town, I saw families of roosters, hens, and chicks roaming freely. My jaw dropped the first time I saw them; I have never felt more like a city girl.

The roosters crowed in protest when I got too close to the babies with my camera, but I couldn't help myself because they were so darn cute. I took zillions of pictures, most of which turned out blurry because those little chicks rarely hold still.

This little guy was right at my feet.

I ended my visit by browsing around a couple of antique stores and picking up an old bird book, trading cards, and vintage ephemera. It was a really good day.

9 comments:

Boy, I'll say it was a good day...I love chickens..and little peeps.....and the mission..I'd be right there with you..looks so peaceful....despite vertigao!and the paper goods..goods indeed...great job of treasure hunting!Me..I've been finding myself in the garden...

I want to go. I want to go. I have not been there for years. Forrest plays a concert there every summer which is par of the Cabrillo Music Festival. As you can imagine, the concert is ALWAYS sold out. That is the time-frame that you will be in Grass Valley with me but some year we will have to go to his concert!!! So much to do...so little time. I love California.

Oh my, what a wonderful day! Right up my alley to visit such a gorgeous place! I was raised on country sunshine, so the chickens would make me feel right at home:) Enjoy the graduation and the long weekend! Hugs!

So glad you had a wonderful day & I too have a love for Ca Missions. I grew up going to Mission San Juan Capistrano...maybe that's where it comes from, but for me they are they oldest structures that CA has & being such a history buff, that's makes them one of my favorite places to go. My Dad lives about 2o min. from Capistrano, I think he might really enjoy a visit to the mission. They are so peaceful & we could just sit outside in the garden & enjoy the day. Thanks friend for reminding why I love them so much!Hvae a Great Memorial Day!!!Smiles,Susie